Which massage stroke is characterized by kneading or rolling of the muscles?

Petrissage is recognized as a massage technique that primarily involves kneading and rolling motions applied to the muscles. This stroke is performed by lifting, squeezing, and pressing the muscle tissue, which effectively helps in increasing blood circulation, improving lymphatic drainage, and promoting relaxation.

This kneading action allows the therapist to access deeper layers of muscle tissue, making it particularly beneficial for muscle recovery and tension release. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of petrissage can also enhance a client's sense of well-being and comfort during the massage.

The other techniques listed, such as effleurage, tapotement, and friction, have distinct characteristics that serve different purposes in massage therapy. Effleurage involves long, gliding strokes that help to warm up the tissues, tapotement consists of rhythmic tapping or percussion, and friction refers to deep pressure applied to specific areas to break down adhesions. These techniques do not incorporate the kneading or rolling action associated with petrissage, which is what makes this option the correct choice.